Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for operable breast cancer

Background: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer can avoid mastectomy by shrinkage of tumour volume. This review assesses the effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on clinical outcome.

Methods: All randomized trials comparing neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer were reviewed systematically and meta-analyses were performed.

Results: Fourteen studies randomizing 5500 women were eligible for analysis. Overall survival was equivalent in both groups. In the neoadjuvant group, the mastectomy rate was lower (relative risk 0.71 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0.67 to 0.75)) without hampering local control (hazard ratio 1.12 (95 per cent c.i. 0.92 to 1.37)). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was associated fewer adverse effects.

Conclusion: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is an established treatment option for early breast cancer.